Bildung Community
Meet our community: the board, the working groups, and the volunteers who help shape Bildung Nijmegen.
Chairman
Yavuz Goktas
As chairman of Bildung Nijmegen, I strongly believe in the power of people. Every day, I see what becomes possible when people are given the space to grow, to meet one another, and to build something together.
For me, Bildung is about more than learning. It is about personal growth, discovering your talents, building confidence, and working together on something that truly matters. I get a lot of energy from connecting people, ideas, and initiatives, and seeing something meaningful take shape from that.
Through my background in youth work and the collaborations I have been part of over the years, I have seen how important it is for people to feel heard, taken seriously, and included. That, to me, is the core of Bildung Nijmegen: creating space for development, connection, and initiative.
Whether it is young people, makers, professionals, organisations, or others involved, I believe in what can happen when people find one another and build ideas together that make a real difference.
Do you have an idea, plan, or dream that connects with this? I would be glad to think it through with you.
Secretary | International Working Group
Adnan Sisman
Hello, my name is Adnan Sisman.
In recent years, I have worked as an intercultural consultant supporting disadvantaged groups in and around Nijmegen. Besides helping with practical matters such as interpreting, explaining letters from institutions and assisting with applications for social support, I focused on building a bridge between these communities and social or cultural activities. I strongly believe it is essential to bring people from different backgrounds together for open dialogue, so that we can learn with each other and especially from each other.
I now hope to apply my practical experience within Bildung Nijmegen by helping to organise activities for young people, including workshops, Erasmus+ projects and cultural initiatives. I look forward to meeting you at a Bildung Nijmegen event soon.
Treasurer
Ramon Rahangmetan
Hi, my name is Ramon Rahangmetan. I am a freelance educator, project manager, and public speaker specializing in youth participation, sustainability, and European cooperation. I am also a co-founder of Circle of Sustainable Europe (CoSE), a Brussels-based organization that connects young people with European policy, education, and international projects. As a public speaker, I have spoken at venues including the European Parliament, the United Nations Office in Geneva, and World Summit AI in Amsterdam.
With an academic background in Urban Sustainable Development and Hospitality & Business Management, my work focuses on non-formal learning, digital skills, and active citizenship. I also facilitate interactive workshops such as Tech Trends!, Hello Europe!, and Media Literacy at various schools.
Within Bildung Nijmegen, I serve as Treasurer, contributing to the organization’s financial management as well as its project development and strategic growth.
Board member | Regional Working Group
Claudia Librizzi
My name is Claudia. I’m a visual artist and singer, and since 2017 I’ve been active as a volunteer in community work and youth work.
In my work, I support and train young people through non-formal education: learning by doing, experiencing and experimenting in a safe and open environment. I believe young people learn not only from trainers, but also from each other.
At the end of 2022, I joined Bildung Nijmegen as a board member. Bildung feels like the right place for me because we are genuinely committed to young people and create space for personal growth, creativity and connection.
I hope to inspire others to contribute to a world where young people can discover themselves, develop their talents and help each other move forward.
Honorary Board Member — In Memoriam
Stephan Spieker
In memory of our dear friend, colleague and fellow board member.
Our unofficial community mascot
Amy 🐾
Amy is our loyal office dog and a beloved member of the Bildung community. During meetings and projects, she often brings a smile and helps create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
International Working Group
Meet the team behind our International Working Group.
International Working Group
Setareh Sezavar
Hi, I’m Setareh.
As a pedagogue, I guide young people and young adults through informal and non formal learning. My work is rooted in an agogic approach, with a strong focus on safety, connection and personal growth.
I have a background in pedagogy and experience working with young people facing different challenges, including ADHD, autism, financial difficulties and mental health struggles. In both educational and youth work settings, I focus on creating an environment where young people feel safe, seen and supported.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I support young people in building self confidence, developing their strengths and finding their own path, at their own pace.
I believe that real growth starts when young people feel heard and trusted, and when there is space to explore who they are and who they want to become.
International Working Group | Board Advisor
Aleksandr Stommels
When you meet me for the first time, you will experience my positive vibe, which will immediately make you want to discuss possibilities and start working together. How will we work together to tackle your personal development in new education?
As a sensitive, social person with a lot of empathy, I am available to others as a problem solver and mentor and I am results-oriented to achieve maximum results in collaboration with students and teachers on the challenges that lie ahead.
My passion for Bildung is deeply-rooted. In addition to knowledge and skills, attention must also be paid to personal growth, ethics, and the ability to think critically. With an open, honest and friendly attitude and a lot of humor, I stay in touch with an entire ecosystem and with this we achieve the development of your full potential at Bildung. I look forward to starting this journey with you!
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International Working Group
Joshua Tourlamain
Coming soon
International Working Group
Veronica Belzonella
Hello, I’m Veronica, from Italy.
I left my home country at the age of 17, lived in Brazil for a while, and I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Artificial Intelligence at Radboud University in Nijmegen.
Travelling is one of my greatest passions. It allows me to discover different cultures, lifestyles and ways of seeing the world. In those differences, I find inspiration to reflect on my own values and broaden my perspective.
I am also passionate about volunteering, especially in youth work and education. Through these experiences, I have learned that growth happens both ways: sometimes as a student, sometimes as a teacher.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I hope to contribute with my international perspective, curiosity and commitment to young people.
International Working Group
Rebecca-Elisa de Jeer
I am Rebecca-Elisa de Jeer, a spontaneous International Social Work student at HAN with a heart for language and culture.
In my spare time I dance, sing and like to travel the world to get to know new people and cultures.
I already had the opportunity to do this a few times through Erasmus+, including through Bildung Nijmegen. These valuable experiences have inspired me to show my fellow students the opportunities and to offer help if they also want to discover Erasmus +. I will do this from September through membership of the Europeans Network and I want to do this locally through Bildung Nijmegen.
I find Bildung so fascinating because through experiences and art you can learn very differently, super fun and personally for everyday life. The Bildung Lumbung performance project showed me what this could look like in concrete terms. This explored another non-Western view of working with others as a community.
Come meet me at Bildung and I can tell you which other committees and organizations I am in! So see you soon :)
International Working Group
Berna Adiyaman
Hi, I'm Berna, an enthusiastic student with extensive experience in the Erasmus+ landscape. During my career I have participated in a number of projects, including training, seminars, study visits and youth exchanges. I have also organized several projects in the Netherlands, Spain, Italy and Turkey.
My passion for Erasmus+ and Bildung stems from my belief that these programs give young people the opportunity to grow, learn and explore the world. I look forward to being involved in project development at Bildung and further developing myself within this field.
In addition to my experience with project management, I offer support as a Turkish/English interpreter, content creator and creative writer.
I believe that Bildung can play an important role in building bridges between different cultures and communities. I am therefore really looking forward to contributing to the Bildung Community! See you soon!
International Working Group
Şevket Yilmaz
I’m Şevket Yılmaz.
I have completed my Master’s in Business Administration at Hasan Kalyoncu University, following a Bachelor’s in Architecture. My main interests are project management, strategic planning, and international collaboration.
As co-founder and Executive Manager of Pacific Consultancy Ltd., I focus on project development, coordination, and securing funding. I also gained experience at KALITTO, the Technology Transfer Office of Hasan Kalyoncu University, where I worked on EU-funded projects and university–industry collaboration. In addition, I worked with UNFAO in monitoring and evaluation.
I am fluent in English and have a working knowledge of Spanish. I enjoy working with diverse teams and contributing to projects that create real impact.
International Working Group
Gizem Arik
Hi, I’m Gizem. I have a background as an English teacher and later worked at the Erasmus+ office of Kalitto, where I supported and coordinated various international projects.
I’m a calm, dedicated, and detail-oriented person. I take pride in working carefully and making sure things are organised in a reliable and thoughtful way, especially when it comes to projects that create meaningful experiences for young people.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I feel most at home in the international work. I enjoy contributing to projects that bring young people together, broaden their perspectives, and create connections between different cultures.
International Working Group
Dudu Türkü Eroğlu
Coming soon
International Working Group
Ibrahim Kayal
My name is Ibrahim Kayal, and I am a student at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. I was also named HBO Hero of the Netherlands 2025. I strongly believe in the power of connection between people, cultures, and communities. I am passionate about traveling, discovering new cultures, and bringing people from different backgrounds together to help build a world without borders.
In addition, I created my own documentary, together with inspiring individuals from the Netherlands, about inequality and injustice in the world and how we can address it. Through my story, I aim to contribute to awareness, connection, and a greener, safer future where everyone feels free and welcome.
International Working Group
Paula Urbano Peña
Hi! I’m Paula, a Spanish student based in The Hague, where I study European Studies.
I’m passionate about sustainability, intercultural exchange and the role young people can play in shaping Europe. Through Erasmus+ projects, I’ve become especially interested in non-formal education, youth participation and working with people from different backgrounds.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I would love to help with both writing and carrying out Erasmus+ projects. I’m excited to develop ideas, support international activities and contribute to projects that bring young people together.
Outside my studies, I enjoy travelling, sports, animals and meeting new people.
International Working Group
Eva Maria Olteanu
Through my journey in the Erasmus+ program, I’ve been able to turn my love for travel, personal growth, and youth work into real projects ones I’ve written myself or brought to life together with youth organizations. I create opportunities for young people while continuing to explore the world myself, showing that you can chase new adventures and run meaningful projects at the same time (usually with a smile and an overpacked backpack).
At Bildung Nijmegen, I found a place where young people, art, and personal growth come together. We create opportunities for those who need them most, in a way that is human, curious, and genuinely collaborative. It’s a community where ideas truly come alive, and where not only the projects grow, but the people behind them as well.
Regional Working Group
Meet the team behind our Regional Working Group.
Regional Working Group
Keyshia Tshuma
Hello, I’m Keyshia Tshuma and I’m from Nijmegen.
I have experience in events, media, social media, websites, and youth work. I enjoy bringing people together and making ideas visible in a creative and accessible way.
With a background in hosting, filming, podcasts, and video editing, I like to tell stories that resonate with people. I also know Nijmegen well and understand how to reach and engage young people.
Since 2014, I have gained experience working with youth across different organizations. I recently graduated as a social support worker in Arnhem.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I would like to contribute to projects where youth, creativity, and connection are central. I hope to help build an environment where young people feel seen and have space to grow.
Kind regards,
Keyshia Tshuma
Regional Working Group
Antoni Chen
My name is Antoni Chen, and I am a third-year Business Administration student. I currently hold a unique position as an intern at the HAN Green Office and as a team member at Sustainable Solutions. What makes this role special is that I can develop myself within two organisations that both play a meaningful part in advancing sustainability in education.
In both the HAN Green Office and Sustainable Solutions (SUSO), I work as an account manager, and I also manage SUSO’s social media platforms. In addition, I am part of the Honours Programme at the HAN, where I continue to sharpen my skills and broaden my perspectives.
Through my internship, my work, and my personal interests, I find myself in a valuable phase of my lif, one in which I am gaining a great deal of practical experience. I am grateful for the opportunities these organisations offer me, and I look forward to growing together with them, now also in collaboration with Bildung Nijmegen.
Regional Working Group | Legal
Damian Coenen
Hello! My name is Damian Coenen.
I graduated as a lawyer in 2021 and am currently also working as a fiduciary administrator. In that capacity I am at the centre of the social domain.
I am a critical person. I don't shy away from big challenges and I don't take anything for granted.
One of my most important competencies is being open and approachable. In this way, I want to keep the threshold low for everyone to get in touch with the Bildung Platform Nijmegen Foundation as low as possible. Let’s have a coffee together sometime.
Regional Working Group | Internal Confidential Adviser
Cristel Busser
For me, Bildung is a place where people can think, speak and listen freely. A place where difficult topics are not avoided, but explored with openness, respect and curiosity.
In a time of growing polarization, I believe spaces for real dialogue are more important than ever. Freedom of speech, critical thinking and democracy all depend on our ability to stay in conversation, especially when we disagree.
Alongside my work as a policy officer at HAN University of Applied Sciences, within the team for Education, Research and Innovation Support, I am committed to contributing to these kinds of spaces.
Through Bildung Nijmegen, I want to help build a community where people feel safe to share their views, question assumptions and learn from one another. By creating room for dialogue and debate, we support people in developing their full potential and strengthen mutual understanding.
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Regional Working Group
Eda Sisman
Hello, my name is Eda. I’m 26 years old, originally from Türkiye, and I’ve been living in the beautiful city of Nijmegen for almost five years now. I recently completed my B1 Dutch course, something I’m really proud of. Back in Türkiye, I graduated as a surgical assistant and worked in several hospitals a profession I’m still very passionate about.
Since 2024, I’ve been involved with Bildung Nijmegen and have taken part in various projects. I truly enjoy meeting new people, working together, and continuing to grow. Through Bildung, I’ve been able to improve both my Dutch and my English, but also develop my creativity, confidence, and sense of connection.
I’m excited to gain more experience, make new friends, and actively contribute to our community.
Regional Working Group
Justin van den Brink
Hi! I’m Justin, born and raised in Nijmegen.
I studied event management and nowadays I work as a First Employee in a hotel and as soon as festival season kicks off, you’ll find me behind the bar as a Bar Manager.
Music is my biggest passion: I play guitar, DJ, and you can find me almost every week at an open mic or in the karaoke club, where I can sing and just be myself.
At Bildung I feel completely at home. I get a lot of energy from meeting new people, sharing my knowledge, and contributing to a creative and inclusive community.
Thanks to Bildung I’ve already been able to join several international Erasmus+ projects as well as regional projects in and around Nijmegen and hopefully many more are still to come!
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Regional Working Group
Mina Wardak
Hello, my name is Mina. I have a background in law and I am also the founder of Mùska Couture, a couture label that is much more to me than just fashion. Driven by my passion for empowerment and self-expression, I organise fashion shows and give workshops where young women come together, discover their talents, and grow more confident in who they are.
Connection is at the heart of my work. I find it important to create a safe and inspiring environment where everyone feels seen and heard. For me, communication, openness and respect form the foundation for having real conversations and growing together.
Within Bildung Nijmegen, I see a place where there is room for development, dialogue and strengthening each other’s qualities. I believe this space helps young people find their own voice and build their confidence, something I am grateful to contribute to with my background and passion.
Regional Working Group
Jordi Cohen
Coming soon
Regional Working Group
Ferdinand Boesveld
For me, art therapy is about more than guidance. It is about creating space together for what is still unspoken: emotions, images, movement and experiences that are difficult to put into words.
I work as a registered visual art therapist at MOEV, where I support young people and families through creative and experiential therapy. My background in art therapy, including my studies at HAN University of Applied Sciences, shapes the way I look at growth, expression and connection.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I enjoy creating a safe space where young people can listen to themselves again, explore what they feel and discover new ways to express themselves.
I believe personal growth does not come from thinking alone. It also comes from daring to feel, to create and to connect with yourself, others and the world around you.
Regional Working Group
Sophie Pals
Hi, I’m Sophie Pals. At Bildung Nijmegen, I support young people in a personal and approachable way, with attention to who they are and what they need.
I have a background in pedagogy and social work, and I have been working in informal and non-formal learning environments for years. These are the spaces where I feel most at home: where young people can speak freely, experiment, and discover what suits them.
In my work, trust, safety, and genuine attention are central. I believe young people grow when they feel seen and are given the space to find their own voice.
Regional Working Group
Shohreh Yazdani
Coming soon
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Regional Working Group
Rita Abo Okdi
My name is Rita Abo Okdi. I am 18 years old and have a strong interest in technology. I enjoy working with computers and digital systems, and I like helping others use digital tools.
I will soon start studying Computer Science at Radboud University. Through this study, I want to further develop my technical skills and build a future in the IT field. At Bildung Nijmegen, I use my skills to support others and work together on projects.
Regional Working Group
Peter van der Woude
I’m Peter! I studied Business Administration and Circular Economy here in Nijmegen, and I’m passionate about everything related to sustainability, from new materials and the energy transition to multi-value creation and climate justice.
At Bildung, I’m involved in activities and projects focused on sustainability and social change. I’m naturally very curious and a big fan of adventure, so I’m always exploring new ideas and trying different things. Bildung matches my passion for connecting people and thinking outside the box.
Regional Working Group
Antoaneta Yoshovska
Coming soon
Regional Working Group
Boris Huberts
Hi, I’m Boris.
I’m a socially engaged person who cares about bringing people together, especially across generations. In my daily life, I work as a chef, where creativity and connection with people play a central role.
I’m also the founder of Vereniging EJVO, where we create spaces for young and older people to meet, such as coffee mornings and living room gatherings. These moments show how valuable it is to truly connect with one another.
At Bildung Nijmegen, I want to contribute to a community where people feel welcome, meet each other and learn from one another. I believe that real connection is where growth begins.
Bildung Advisors
Bildung Nijmegen is shaped by more than its board alone. We are also supported by a group of advisors who share their knowledge, experience and perspective with our community.
Board Advisor
Prof. dr. Jan Bransen
Hello, my name is Jan Bransen.
As emeritus professor of philosophy at Radboud University and author of Gevormd of vervormd? Een pleidooi voor ander onderwijs, I work on questions around personal formation, autonomy, self-knowledge and the ways in which people develop.
In my view, education should not only be about performance, testing and adapting to existing systems. It should help people become more grounded, find their own voice and reflect together on what truly matters.
This is the idea behind De Tussentijd: a place outside existing educational institutions where people can work on personal development, encounter and reflection in an everyday, accessible way.
External Confidential Counselor
At Bildung Nijmegen, we believe everyone should feel safe and supported.
Our external confidential counsellor is available for anyone who would like to talk about concerns, sensitive issues or unwanted behaviour. They offer a listening ear and can help you think through possible next steps.
External Confidential Counselor
Truus Janssen
Hello, I’m Truus Janssen.
As an external confidential counsellor, I offer a safe and trusted space where you can speak openly about concerns, doubts or situations that do not feel right. You can contact me anonymously and without any obligation. Everything you share will be treated confidentially.
I listen with empathy and respect, and together we can explore what you need and which next steps may be appropriate. This could mean finding a practical solution, talking through how you would like to move forward, or looking at a referral if that would be more suitable.
Through my broad experience of working with different people and situations, I am able to quickly sense what may be needed. My role is to stand beside you, help create clarity and support you in finding a way forward.